Problems concerning mental health are both common and varied between individuals. While statistics show that 1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime, the remaining 4 in 5 Canadians are likely to experience a mental health problem through the people close to them. The healthcare system is increasingly dedicating attention to mental health in order to help Canadians find the treatments and support that they need.

Historically, mental health has been misrepresented, with many people falsely believing that a mental health crisis was a sign of weakness or an issue that could be solved simply be “toughening up.” Through research, Canadians have come to a better understanding about the character of mental illness and how, in many cases, it is a manageable condition. While some unhealthy stigma still exists regarding mental illnesses and the care for mental health, medical experts across the world are in agreement that it is a normal medical concern that can be managed to promote a satisfying and healthy life.

Mental health isn’t just about problems that affect how people think and process emotions. The ramifications of an ongoing mental health problem or a mental health crisis have been strongly tied to aspects of a patient’s physical health as well. The brain is the control centre for the entire body so it is not particularly surprising to the medical community that problems affecting its ability to function normally would also have negative effects on the rest of the body.

Mental illnesses are as varied as the treatments available. While talking about mental health and having awareness are great steps toward removing the stigma surrounding the issue, getting help is the most important step.

Psychologists and Psychiatrists are two very common branches of medicine and science dedicated to working with and managing the inner workings of the brain. 

WHAT IS A PSYCHIATRIST:

A psychiatrist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating and preventing emotional and behavioural health problems. The focus of a psychiatrist is on the mental and physical aspects of psychiatric problems, such as behavioural patterns or brain chemistry. Although these medical professionals are highly specialized in this area, they often work with a team with other doctors to find the best treatments for their patients.

Psychiatrists are able to deal with many psychiatric problems, either acute or chronic in nature. They have many standardized tools to help them in the process of diagnosing issues, and are sometimes even sub-specialized into certain branches of psychiatry.

A psychiatrist is not just for what would be considered a “serious” problem, or the management of a crisis. They treat a very wide array of problems, and all concerns affecting the mental health of their patients are taken seriously.

WHAT DO PSYCHIATRISTS DO:

Pleasantview Medicentres

11076 – 51 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta

Referral required.

Services covered by Alberta Health.

WHAT IS PSYCHOLOGIST:

A Psychologist is an important professional in the treatment plan of many patients with mental illnesses, offering counselling and therapy to help a patient with their condition or afflictions.

Psychologists focus mainly on the thoughts, feelings, and general mental health of a patient. Different branches of psychology will approach the complexities of a patient’s brain in different ways, all intent on helping a patient to process their problems to find satisfying solutions. Counselling and therapy options through a psychologist will offer options of talk therapy that are focused on finding the sources of a patient’s main concerns and then working to formulate effective solutions for healing.

Psychologists will often work with a medical team to collectively seek relief of the medical concerns of a patient in an effective and lasting way.

South Trail Medicentres

4307 103 Ave SE #82 Calgary, Alberta